Name: Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 8 h 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup brown sugar; 2 tablespoons light corn syrup; 1 loaf thick-cut brioche or challah bread; 5 large eggs; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup whole milk; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Imagine waking up to the irresistible aroma of buttery caramel, golden toasted bread, and a custard-like center that melts in your mouth. Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast transforms a classic breakfast favorite into a luxurious morning treat without the stress of early prep. All the magic happens overnight, so you can enjoy a showstopping brunch with minimal effort in the morning.

This dish combines thick slices of bread soaked in a rich cream and egg mixture, layered over a decadent caramel sauce, and baked to perfection. The result is a soft, custardy center with a golden, slightly crisp top — reminiscent of the dessert it’s named after. Whether it’s for a cozy weekend breakfast or an elegant holiday brunch, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast

You’ll love this recipe because it’s both indulgent and effortless. The overnight soak means the bread absorbs all the rich flavors, ensuring a custardy texture inside and a caramelized crust outside. It’s perfect for serving a crowd since you can prepare it the night before and simply bake it in the morning. Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of maple syrup for added decadence.

Ingredients for the Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a role in creating its rich flavor and irresistible texture:

Unsalted butter – Forms the base of the caramel sauce, adding richness and a smooth mouthfeel.
Brown sugar – Brings a deep, molasses-like sweetness to the caramel layer.
Light corn syrup – Helps prevent crystallization in the caramel and gives it a glossy finish.
Thick-cut bread (like brioche or challah) – Holds up to the custard soak without falling apart, while adding its own buttery flavor.
Large eggs – The backbone of the custard mixture, providing structure and creaminess.
Heavy cream – Lends a luxurious texture to the custard.
Whole milk – Balances the richness of the heavy cream while keeping the custard silky.
Vanilla extract – Adds warm, aromatic notes to both the custard and caramel.
Salt – Enhances all the flavors without overpowering them.

How To Make the Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast

Step 1: Prepare the caramel base

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add brown sugar and corn syrup, stirring until smooth and combined. Pour the caramel into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Arrange the bread

Slice the brioche or challah into thick slices. Lay them over the caramel in the baking dish, slightly overlapping if needed to fit.

Step 3: Make the custard mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, whole milk, vanilla extract, and salt until well blended. Make sure the eggs are fully incorporated for a smooth custard.

Step 4: Soak the bread

Slowly pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread slices, ensuring all pieces are coated. Lightly press the bread down so it soaks up the custard.

Step 5: Chill overnight

Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, or overnight, to allow the bread to fully absorb the custard.

Step 6: Bake to perfection

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap and bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the custard is set.

Step 7: Serve and enjoy

Let it cool slightly before serving. Spoon out each portion, making sure to get some of the caramel sauce from the bottom of the dish.

Serving and Storing Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast

This recipe serves about 6 to 8 people, making it ideal for family breakfasts, brunch gatherings, or special occasions. Serve it warm straight from the oven to enjoy the gooey caramel and soft custard-like texture. You can garnish with powdered sugar, fresh berries, or a dollop of whipped cream for added elegance.

If you have leftovers, let them cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10–15 minutes, or warm gently in the microwave. The oven method helps maintain the texture better than microwaving.

What to Serve With Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast?

Fresh berries

Their natural tartness balances the sweetness of the French toast.

Whipped cream

Adds an airy, creamy contrast to the rich custard and caramel.

Maple syrup

For those who can’t resist extra sweetness.

Crispy bacon

The salty crunch makes a perfect savory companion.

Sausage links

Bring a hearty, protein-rich side to your brunch plate.

Greek yogurt

Adds tanginess and a bit of creaminess without overpowering the dish.

Freshly brewed coffee or tea

A warm drink pairs beautifully with the indulgence of this breakfast.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this without letting it sit overnight?
Yes, but the texture will be slightly different. Allowing it to sit overnight ensures the bread absorbs the custard fully, resulting in a creamier texture.

2. What type of bread works best?
Brioche or challah are ideal due to their rich, slightly sweet flavor and ability to hold up to the custard without becoming mushy.

3. Can I freeze Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast?
Yes, you can freeze baked portions. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.

4. How do I prevent the top from over-browning?
If you notice the top browning too quickly, loosely cover the dish with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.

5. Can I add flavors to the custard?
Absolutely. Cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a splash of orange liqueur can enhance the flavor profile.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add liqueur or leave it out? Did you try chocolate on top?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too — let’s help each other bake smarter.

Conclusion

Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast is the perfect make-ahead breakfast for when you want to serve something special without the morning rush. With its rich caramel base, custardy bread, and beautiful golden top, it’s a showstopper that’s surprisingly simple to prepare. Whether for a holiday, a birthday brunch, or a weekend indulgence, this dish will become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.